64 Cheap Christmas Gifts That Maximize Your Holiday Budget
Updated: Jan. 31, 2022Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links. Ratings and prices are accurate and items are in stock as of time of publication.
Looking for a thoughtful present under $50—or even under $10? It’s totally possible with these inexpensive Christmas gifts that are sure to be a hit.
The holidays may be the most magical time of the year, but once you start buying presents for everyone on your list, it can quickly also become stressful—and expensive! First, breathe. Second, check out the best cheap Christmas gifts we found that will keep your spending in check. We promise these budget-friendly buys will delight even the most discerning recipient. Trust us: It’s possible to find gifts for women and men that are thoughtful and affordable. In fact, every item on this list is under $50—and many are under $10!
Shop for sentimental picks for your significant other, fun gifts for kids (including stocking stuffers), useful items for coworkers, and unique options for every type of best friend. You’ll also find universally appealing Secret Santa gifts and even gag gifts that’ll make anyone laugh. You may even want to add some of these inexpensive gift ideas to your own wish list! Just be sure to keep track of holiday shipping deadlines, and if you’ve waited a bit too long, check out these Amazon Prime gifts for last-minute shoppers who need something quick.
Cheap Christmas gifts under $50
BaubleBar Custom Multi Cutout Pisa Bracelet
Consider this a chic updated version of the quintessential friendship bracelet. Bright, bold enamel cutout letters and symbol beads can be mixed and matched to create a fabulous personalized gift.
Luxie Golden Glow Brush Set
This female-founded company creates cruelty-free and vegan brushes that perfect your makeup routine and also look chic on your vanity. This set (a $122 value!) includes seven gold-tone brushes and a luxe-looking faux-leather carrying case to store and display them all. Here are more of the best makeup brushes to create a flawless look.
SodaStream Fountain Home Soda Maker Kit
Turn plain water into a bubbly, better-for-you beverage in seconds, with just the push of a button. This easy-to-use SodaStream Fountain will make carbonating drinks a fun activity for everyone in their home. A SodaStream could make a cool gift for your brother if he’s into fizzy beverages—plus, you’ll be able to use it too.
Lunya Washable Silk Sleep Mask
This super-soft eye mask doesn’t just block out light—it also reduces the appearance of fatigue and dark circles and prevents hair creases. Plus, it doubles as a headband for your nightly beauty routine. Bonus: It’s machine washable.
Nails Inc. Manicure & Pedicure Must-Haves Set
Give the gift of great nails. This $37 kit, which is a $63 value, is packed with five best-selling products, including a nourishing cuticle oil, a retinol-infused top coat, and a “gel effect” pink polish. It’s guaranteed to create a flawless manicure or pedicure in no time. If you want to spend less, pick one of these top-rated nail polishes or cuticle oils instead.
Lano 101 Ointment Fruities Trio
These little tubes of magic just may be the best lip balms you’ll ever buy. (Seriously, the brand’s classic 101 Ointment sells once per minute globally!) The 100 percent natural balms penetrate lips and seal in moisture to hydrate extremely dry and chapped lips. And as the name suggests, there are many uses beyond just perfecting your pucker: Apply to dry cuticles, cracked heels, and nasal passages; keep eyebrows in place; and heal brittle nails, paper cuts, insect bites, and more.
Athleta Supersonic Run Belt
For workout warriors on your list, this sleek and stylish belt bag is ideal for long runs or leisurely walks. It’s small enough to feel invisible but large enough to hold essentials (including an iPhone). It’s also made from recycled fabric, so it’s a great eco-friendly gift.
The Cookie Cups Rainbow Ravioli Making Kit
Looking for cheap Christmas gifts that the whole family can enjoy? This brand-new cooking kit from the woman-owned business Cookie Cups is a fun activity for your entire crew. It has all the essential ingredients and tools (18 pieces total) to make a rainbow ravioli dish, including a mini apron for kids, ravioli flour, measuring cups, a rolling pin, a silicone baking mat, and easy-to-follow instructions to whip up your very own colorful homemade pasta with sweet or savory fillings.
Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lip Secrets Set
Any makeup maven is surely obsessed with Charlotte Tilbury’s beauty-boosting collection, and now you don’t have to spend a fortune to snag her beloved products. Tilbury’s best-selling, award-winning Pillow Talk shade enhances and flatters all skin tones, creating fuller-looking lips. This $45 set, which would cost you $71 if you bought everything individually, includes the iconic shade in all your favorite lip formats and finishes: a lipstick, a liner, and two glosses.
Candle by the Hour Self-Extinguishing Coil Candle
Never worry about leaving a burning candle unattended with this eye-catching coiled beeswax design. The candle’s cotton wick can burn 20 minutes per inch that you pull through the clip. Once the flame reaches the wick, it will put itself out. It includes a mod metal base with a self-extinguishing clip, or you can opt for a bamboo base model or holiday-scented versions.
Beaded Monogram Pouch
A monogram makes a gift extra meaningful. Adorned with sequins and beads, this ultra-glam leather pouch will add a little oomph to any ensemble. It’s guaranteed to be a special accessory she’ll look forward to using for years to come.
Drunk Elephant The Littles Hair + Body Kit 2.0
Celebrity hairstylist Chris McMillan (the genius behind Jennifer Aniston’s gorgeous hair) teamed up with cult-favorite brand Drunk Elephant to create a line of hair and body products worthy of any A-lister. With this set of mini products, you don’t have to have a Hollywood salary to snag the goods. You’ll get seven items, including a glossing shampoo, marula cream conditioner, scalp scrub, tangle spray, body cleanser, body lotion, and deodorant—plus a bonus comb and bag. More to love: Everything is vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty-free, and comes in recyclable packaging.
Sephora Collection Holy Sheet!
If you’re looking for inexpensive Christmas gifts, check out Sephora’s gift sets for a treasure trove of options. We love this aptly named limited-edition holiday set of 20 best-selling clean skin-care products, which has an $87 value but you can get for $48. It includes 18 masks for the face, nose, hands, feet, eyes, and hair, plus two convenient mini-packs of cleansing wipes.
BaubleBar Earring Stack Builder
BaubleBar will let you customize a set of three earrings for just $48. There are five fashionable designs to choose from. Here’s a super smart (and cheap) Christmas gift idea: Gift each pair separately to make the most of your purchase! You can even buy a velvet pouch on Amazon for less than a buck to make it look extra special.
Aritzia The Super Puff Mitten
Aritzia’s famous Super Puff jacket is a favorite of celebrities (and just about everyone else), since the super warm down puffer is stylish and seriously warm. While you may not be able to afford to buy the coat as a gift, the brand just released a pair of mittens made from the same responsibly sourced goose down. They’re water-repellent and wind-resistant with a glossy high-shine material that looks chic—and won’t require any extra hand warmers when the temps drop!
Cheap Christmas gifts under $25
Rainbow Socks Sushi Socks Box
Hear us out: Socks are not a boring Christmas gift. At least, not these kitschy versions shaped like your favorite sushi rolls. You can also serve up pairs in a pizza box, or in burger, tortilla, and even beer-shaped designs that make great stocking stuffers for men.
Be Burgundy Personalized Cutting Board
Serving trays and cutting boards are reliable and classic hostess gifts, but these personalized bamboo boards also make an ideal Christmas gift that’s surprisingly inexpensive. (They’re only $16.95!) Choose from six different shapes and 11 design options to have laser-engraved into this thoughtful kitchen addition.
INC.redible Party Recharge Hydrating Hyaluronic Under Eye Masks
Snap a selfie while you recharge after the holiday party with these shimmering, soothing patches that are packed with real diamond powder and hydrating niacinamide to de-puff and brighten dark circles. Each pot features 20 pairs—perfect for nonstop sparkle. They’re also 100 percent vegan and cruelty-free.
Real Techniques 12 Days of Beauty Kit
This holiday countdown calendar is the gift that keeps giving. Get five mini brushes, three makeup sponges, and more essential accessories to enhance your skin care and makeup routine. This kit includes tools to cleanse and treat skin, as well as blend and perfect makeup, and even solution to clean your brushes. Plus, it comes with a handy pouch to store it all.
SLPBABY Silk Pillowcase
The best cheap Christmas gifts are both stylish and useful. This one fits the bill: It has more than 14,000 five-star reviews that call it one of the best silk pillowcases. Available in eight solid colors and two fun floral patterns, the supremely soft style not only looks good but is also said to benefit the skin and hair by preventing wrinkles and split ends.
True Crime: Tales of Murder and Mayhem
This collection of true crimes covers the most notorious thefts, murders, scams, heists, and kidnappings that have gone unsolved over the decades. With 24 tales of murder and mayhem, it’s a quick gift that delivers big on intrigue.
Mind Stretchers
Whether for filling time in a waiting room or dedicating an afternoon to brain games, this collection of puzzles, crosswords, word searches, and sudoku will keep anyone entertained. Stay sharp and stretch your mind with more than 170 brainteasers. Bonus: You can write (and erase!) directly in the book.
Warmies Holiday Sloth Hugs
These adorable plush sloths offer cute companionship with a secret added benefit: Their filling of natural grains and French lavender offers aromatic comfort that soothes aching muscles and reduces tension and stress when you heat them in the microwave. The pair of soft and snuggly stuffed animals features long arms that attach to wrap around each other, or you, for sweet, relaxing cuddles.
Delaney Candle Holder
Modern-decor lovers will swoon over this sculptural candle holder. The statement-making stunner is handcrafted from lightweight borosilicate glass and will surely be a staple at future dinner parties. This also works as a housewarming gift, so if you know anyone who recently moved, this would be a terrific two-in-one gift.
Little England Gifts Personalized Jewelry Box
Give jewelry junkies who have it all a customized place to keep their beloved baubles. This faux-leather organizer features slots to store rings, necklaces, earrings, and more, and each divider can be removed and rearranged to fit her needs. Choose from five colors for the box ($12.68), then personalize it for another $4.59.
Tocca Mini Discovery Collection Set
Featuring eight of Tocca’s beloved fragrances, this discounted gift set allows you to discover a new signature scent or create a custom blend to suit every mood and occasion. The trial-sized eau de parfum vials are also perfect to travel with or to stash in purses for an on-the-go spritz. The pretty gold-trimmed floral packaging is an added bonus. Give it as a gift to your mom and she’ll know she taught you well.
Countryside Berry Basket
Home chefs who take pride in their food deserve a proper place to keep their perishables. Whether displayed on the table or tucked into the fridge, these sweet ceramic baskets will quickly replace flimsy plastic containers to serve and store all their favorite farmers’ market purchases.
Baer Hands Boutique Create Your Own Mini Figure
This unique stocking stuffer idea is perfect for children who are obsessed with LEGO or adults who are kids at heart. To create a completely custom figurine, key chain, or tree ornament, all you have to do is upload a photo or a detailed description to have this beloved toy personalized to match that special someone on your list.
Snake-Printed Pacifier Porter
Need a gift for a modern mom? Any fashion-forward mother will adore this super stylish binky holder. As their little one gets older, it doubles as a multi-use pouch that conveniently clips onto any handbag.
Murder Mystery Jigsaw Puzzle
Jigsaw junkies will delight in this pumped-up puzzle in which they have to solve a murder mystery, piece by piece. First, they’ll read the details of the crime, then complete the 500-piece jigsaw to reveal clues and solve the whodunit. For a more straightforward yet super challenging choice, these are the hardest puzzles you can buy.
Smart Lab Tiny Ice Cream Kit
Sometimes the smallest gifts make the biggest impact. This miniature set comes with all the equipment they need to make a mini cup of actual ice cream, as well as tiny waffle cones, ice cream sandwich cookies, ice cream taco shells, popsicles, and edible ice cream bowls.
Herb-Infused Avocado Oil Gift Set
The health-conscious cook will eat up these yummy avocado oils. Each two-ounce bottle is infused with delectable ingredients including ginger and turmeric, roasted garlic, chili peppers, and rosemary. They’ll use them when cooking or noshing for the perfect boost of flavor.
Miss Patisserie Rainbow Bath Dust
Featuring a soothing coconut scent, this fizzy rainbow dust transforms bath water into a mesmerizing swirl of vibrant colors. It’s a fun, sweet, and affordable way to pamper a loved one—especially hard-to-please teens.
Personalized Engraved Leather Wallet
Can’t afford a leather purse for your handbag-obsessed partner? Get the next best thing with this slim-fit bi-fold wallet made from genuine leather. The button-closure design has a zipper pocket for coins, slots for credit cards, a clear sleeve for an ID, and a spot for bills. Make it extra special with a personalized message, important date, or an engraving of their name—there are 10 font styles to choose from.
Cheap Christmas gifts under $15
Bundled Up Monogram Mug
This cozy-looking mug will instantly put you in the mood for hot cocoa, so you might want to buy an extra one for yourself. The hand-painted stoneware sipper is just as functional as it is fun since it’s safe for both the dishwasher and microwave. Bonus: A gift tag tied to the handle will make your life even easier!
Paper Riot Co. Framed Dry Erase Board
It’s safe to say we all deserve an award for enduring the past year of pandemic life. Celebrate the daily little wins with this DIY achievement award, which can be reused over and over again to commemorate a job well done. The metallic gold-plated frame with beveled edges makes any small achievement seem extra special. Give it as a gift to your sister, who could use a little extra encouragement—and a good laugh.
Cocktail Grow Kit
Know any cocktail connoisseurs with a green thumb? With this clever grow kit, they can harvest an aromatic happy hour in the comfort of their own home. It comes with thyme, lavender, Thai basil, mint, lemon balm, and blue borage seeds so they can create the coolest cocktails. If your budget allows, add a strawberry or salsa windowsill kit. Hey, everyone needs snacks when sipping!
Designs by Rooh Photo Collage Gift
Want a truly one-of-a-kind yet really inexpensive Christmas gift? Get your loved one a mosaic masterpiece: a large-scale detailed picture made by combining hundreds of tiny photographs. Choose a size, select the main image you want to display, and then send in anywhere from 50 to 300 pics to have your unique piece of personalized art designed. It will be emailed to you as a digital file to print at home—within 24 hours, no less! It’s a cool gift for a husband or a boyfriend that he’ll get a kick out of examining.
Williams Sonoma Festive Jumbo Marshmallows
When it comes to cheap Christmas gift ideas, you can’t go wrong with yummy seasonal treats. These yummy vanilla marshmallows are hand-decorated with Santa faces, gingerbread men, and candy canes, and they almost look too good to eat. Almost.
San Francisco Soap Company Man Bar (Set of 2)
Want to upgrade your guy’s grooming routine? Get him to ditch his Axe Body Spray and introduce him to these premium triple-milled exfoliating soap bars. They are made with glycerin, which is gentle on skin, and come in a variety of fresh, woodsy scents. And the vintage-style packaging makes this gift look a lot more expensive than it actually is.
Dash Mini Waffle Maker
This kitchen gadget makes the perfect snacks, if you ask us. In addition to the cutest breakfast waffles ever, you can whip up mini paninis, hash browns, and even biscuit pizzas later in the day. Plus, it comes in seven fun colors that will look fab in any kitchen.
Encyclopedia of Rainbows Stationery Set
For the rainbow-loving ray of sunshine in your life who loves putting pen to paper, this colorful collection of stationery will surely deliver joy on Christmas day. It comes with 20 cheer-inducing cards and envelopes.
Big Heart Tea Co. Royal Treatmint Tea
Give someone the royal treatment, without an extravagant price tag. This woman-owned tea company is on a mission to make people feel good with the power of healing herbs. Your giftee will feel like a million bucks after sipping this refreshing mint and lavender tea, which is said to promote relaxation and encourage mental and digestive function. Bonus: The tea bags are 100 percent compostable. If java is more their thing, try these gifts for coffee lovers.
Sonia Kashuk Countertop Makeup Tray Organizer
You may think she’s a hoarder, but any makeup- and beauty-obsessed collector will insist that every item she owns is a necessity. Help her keep everything contained and tidy with this stylish countertop organizer, which is a fraction of the price of similar acrylic styles. A clear construction ensures easy visibility; multiple sections help to sort all the clutter; and a gold-finished trim adds a chic, contemporary flair to any vanity. Another suggestion: After her makeup is organized, consider these jewelry organizers so she can get a handle on her stockpile of baubles.
Williams Sonoma Schumacher Ikat Hard Place Mat
Design devotees will adore this good-looking and versatile kitchen accessory, which can be used as a serving tray, placemat, or even a trivet. It has a durable, heat-resistant coating that easily wipes clean and a cork backing that protects tabletops.
The Night We Met Star Map
Want a romantic Christmas gift idea for your significant other? You don’t have to spend a ton to make them swoon. This personalized star map is a beautiful piece of art that’s 100 percent astronomically accurate. The stars are rendered to an exact time, date, and location that you provide. Take note, procrastinators: You can get a digital file to print at home (turnaround time is usually a few hours). If you prefer a physical version, you can have a poster or canvas mailed directly to you, with the option to add a frame. It’s the perfect budget-friendly gift for your wife that’s out of this world.
DOIY Design 30 Days of Self Care
For the overworked and chronically stressed, this 30-day challenge can help encourage better self-care habits. One small act a day can drastically improve mental health and overall well-being, and isn’t that the best gift of all? If you love this idea, check out these other self-care gifts for anyone who needs a little TLC.
White Felt Pom Stocking
For the fashionista who wants to celebrate Christmas without the cheesy decor, this cozy stocking is perfectly festive but still stylish. The colorful pom-poms add a playful touch, and she’ll happily display this on her mantel. For a more traditional take, check out these personalized Christmas stockings.
Lahome Marble Coasters
These ceramic stone coasters are a fancy feast for the eyes, and no one will know how affordable they actually are. Each has an eco-friendly cork back that protects tables, while the swirling, eye-catching patterns (choose from five designs) are totally unique—a true gem!
50 Things About My Father
If you’re unsure of what to get the family man who already has everything (and says he wants nothing), this thoughtful keepsake will show him how much you care. The fill-in gift book provides 50 prompts that let you highlight his talents and quirks, memories you two share, and all the things you love about him. It’s also a great present to give him from the kids. Need more ideas for your pop? We’ve got loads of them in this mega list of gifts for dads.
Yunoun Chakra Stones Healing Crystals
Consider this the perfect match for anyone who is mystical-minded. The gift set includes seven natural gemstones (aventurine, red jasper, tiger’s eye, amethyst, obsidian, lapis lazuli, and crystal), which are said to help with physical and mental healing. You’ll get a gift box, glass pendant, and carrying pouch—plus good vibes at a great price.
Cheap Christmas gifts under $10
Holler and Glow Put Your Hands in the Air Nourishing Hand Mask Trio
Formulated with avocado oil, hyaluronic acid, grape extract, and olive fruit extract, these hand treatments will deeply condition your tired hands. The gloves are even touch-screen-friendly, so there’s no need to stop scrolling while you mask up. This is one of those inexpensive gift ideas that works for a friend or even your grandma!
Eco Lips Candy Cane Lip Balm (3-Pack)
Get them ready for that kiss under the mistletoe! These peppermint-vanilla lip balms provide a cool tingle, as well as super hydration. They also come in the brand’s revolutionary Plant Pod, a patented 100 percent plastic-free, plant-based packaging that looks and acts like a regular tube but doesn’t harm the planet.
Iris Rainbow Pot
Brighten up your favorite gardener’s collection of greenery with this handcrafted piece of pottery. Perfect for pint-sized plants or small succulents, it’s a great modern upgrade that’s sure to spark joy.
Heyday Wireless Flat Bluetooth Earbuds
News flash: Tech gifts don’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, you can get a pair of these Heyday wireless Bluetooth earbuds in a fun color for less than $10. They are attached via a cable that goes around the back of your head for a secure fit, and volume control on the cord and a built-in microphone add to their convenience. This could be a great gift for your father-in-law if you’re unsure about what to get him.
On-the-Go Amusements: 50 Cool Things to Do in the Car
Planning a family road trip for the holidays? Then this family-friendly card game is a must-have purchase. The little tin is packed with screen-free activities and ideas to keep kids entertained and occupied on long drives—or, let’s get real, even when just running daily errands.
Little World Rose Soap Petals
If they love the look of a fresh floral bouquet, they’ll adore these rose-shaped soap creations that resemble real flowers but last much longer. They’re designed so you can peel off one petal at a time, so the rest of the flower stays together for the next experience. Use them to wash your hands or body, or drop them into a tub for a sweet-scented soak. They’re unique home spa products we’re betting she’s never seen before.
Words of Inspiration Soap Bar
Cheap Christmas gifts that express how you feel about the recipient are just a click away. These handmade soaps feature inspiring words and pretty botanical scents that will lift your spirits as you lather. “Loved,” for example, is a sweet and calming blend of lemon, rosemary, and honeysuckle, while “Courage” is infused with sandalwood, peppermint, and sweet pear.
Personalized Good Vibes Enjoy This Moment Coloring Book
The science-backed benefits of adult coloring books are well-documented. This personalized design is filled with whimsical transcendental artwork and uplifting quotes that will help you de-stress and relax. If you’re really strapped for cash, here are more than two dozen coloring pages you can print at home for free.
Eston Portable Foldable Cutlery Set
Eco-warriors who worry about protecting the planet will appreciate this compact cutlery set designed to take on to go. Made from earth-conscious lightweight durable wheat straw material, the fork, spoon, knife, and chopsticks conveniently disassemble and fit into a pocket-friendly carrying case.
Cave Tools Meat Claws
He’ll shred meat like a superhero (or a wild animal) with these non-slip, heat-resistant grippers. As a bonus, he’ll get access to the Grill Master’s Essential Barbecue Recipe Book, which includes 25 barbecue recipes, tutorial videos, and more than 135 cooking videos.
Plantable Wish Cards
Anyone working on self-improvement will appreciate this gardening kit with an inspiring twist. Write inspiring messages on these plantable cards, put them in dirt, water them, and watch them grow into gorgeous wildflowers!
Personalized Crayon Names
Jazz up art time with a personalized set of multi-hued crayons. At just 90 cents per letter, you afford to outfit all your favorite little ones with these custom coloring gems. It’s a great inexpensive Christmas gift idea for toddlers that will keep them entertained.
A Little Zodiac Book
For devoted astrologers and brand-new stargazers alike, these starry-eyed board books celebrate every zodiac sign. With charming illustrations and rhyming text, they offer a sweet and accessible introduction to baby’s first horoscope!
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